Magasin des Demoiselles 25-8-1853 1853

This print, "Magasin des Demoiselles," was made in 1853 by J. Desjardins, and it showcases a variety of dressmaking patterns. Printed media like this helped to fuel the expanding fashion industry of the mid-19th century. The image is more than just a record; it’s a document of technique. The stylish dresses worn by the figures are captured through a combination of etching and engraving, with added color. Look closely, and you can see how the line work defines the fabric's texture, weight, and form. Consider the labor involved, not only in the dresses’ construction but also in the creation of the image itself. Skilled artisans would have been needed to translate these designs onto the printing plate. Fashion plates like these are an important reminder of the intersection of craft and commerce, and how modes of production, labor, and class are essential considerations in understanding visual culture.